What is Blueberry? Blueberry is a plant and people use the fruit and leaves to make medicine.

Antioxidants have been shown to help prevent a number of long-term illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and an eye disorder called macular degeneration. Blueberry also contains vitamin C, which is another antioxidant. Blueberries are among the highest anti-oxidant value fruits.

Nutrition Facts:

Blueberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, dietary fiber and manganese. Blueberry is very low in calories. 100 g fresh berries provide only 57 calories.

USES:Blueberries are sold fresh or processed as individually quick frozen (IQF) fruit, purée, juice, or dried or infused berries which in turn may be used in a variety of consumer goods such as jellies, jams, blueberry pies, muffins, snack foods, and cereals.

Blueberry jam is made from blueberries, sugar, water, and fruit pectin. Premium blueberry jam, usually made from wild blueberries, is common in Maine, Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.MEDİCİNAL USES: Blueberry is used for preventing cataracts and glaucoma and for treating ulcers, urinary tract infections (UTIs), multiple sclerosis (MS), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), colic, fever, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. Blueberry is also used for improving circulation, and as a laxative.

Blueberry leaves have traditionally been used to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Blueberry has been used in European medicine for nearly a thousand years, primarily to treat diarrhea.

In addition, these berries contain good amount of minerals like potassium, manganese, copper, iron and zinc. Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure.

Especially in wild species, blueberries contain anthocyanins, other antioxidant pigments and various phytochemicals possibly having a role in reducing risks of some diseases, including inflammation and certain cancers.

At a 2007 symposium on berry health benefits were reports showing consumption of blueberries (and similar berry fruits including cranberries) may alleviate the cognitive decline occurring in Alzheimer's disease and other conditions of aging.